Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
new high-speed rail project linking Bangkok and Chiang Mai but, at the time of writing, it
was unclear how feasible and profitable the project would be.
Getting Around
TO/FROM AIRPORT
There is only one licensed airport taxi service, charging a flat 120B fare. Public bus num-
ber 6 (15B) goes from the airport to points west en route to Chiang Mai University; it isn't
a convenient option if you're staying in the old city. Many guesthouses and hotels also
provide airport transfers.
From any point within the city, you can charter a túk-túk or
rót daang
to the airport for
about 60B to 80B; you can usually get one from the airport into the old city too, although
you may have to wait around for a while until one shows up.
BICYCLE
Cycling is a good way to get around Chiang Mai. Rickety cruiser bikes with a fixed gear
can be rented for around 60B a day from guesthouses. Check the bike carefully before you
hire - brakes in particular can be dodgy. Chiang Mai Mountain Biking (
Click here
) rents
mountain bikes and city bikes (80B to 150B) for the day.
Cacti Bike
OFFLINE MAP
GOOGLE MAP
( 0 5321 2979; 94/1 Th Singharat; bike hire 80-350B)
also offers reliable bike hire,
from simple cruisers to serious mountain bikes with all the accessories. For the really
good mountain bikes a deposit of US$250 or passport is required. An alternative,
SM Travel
OFFLINE MAP
GOOGLE MAP
( 0 5320 6844; 87 Th Ratchadamnoen; mountain bikes 100-200B)
also
hires bikes and is a bit cheaper, reflective of the quality of their bikes.
CAR & TRUCK
Private transport is available from rental agencies throughout the city, mainly along Th
Moon Muang. Be sure that the vehicle you rent has insurance (liability) coverage, which
usually includes a 5000B excess. This does not cover personal injury and medical pay-
ments of anyone injured in a traffic accident. Ask to take a look at the terms of the insur-
ance policy so you're clear on what is and isn't included. Standard rental rates for small
1.5L cars, such as Toyota Vios or Honda Jazz, start at 1500B. Weekly and monthly rates
are available and petrol is not included in the price. Unlimited kilometres should be in-
cluded.
One of the most well-regarded agencies is
North Wheels
OFFLINE MAP
GOOGLE MAP
(
0 5387 4478;
www.northwheels.com
;
70/4-8 Th Chaiyaphum)
, which offers hotel pick-up and deliv-
